Lupe Ontiveros

In the early 1970's, after completing college, moved to California and became a Los Angeles County social worker. Took drama class in 1973 at Hollywood High School in Los Angeles.  After she won an acting competition held by the school, decided to pursue a career in acting.   Made first TV appearance in the 1974 made-for-TV drama I Love You...Goodbye. Assisted in the creation of  the Latino Theater Company in Los Angeles. Appeared in the stage and movie adaptations of Zoot Suit and Real Women Have Curves.   Won a National Board of Review award and received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her performance in the 2000 film Chuck & Buck.  Provided voice of Abuela Elena in the PBS animated series Maya and Miguel.  Narrated the 2005 Independent Lens PBS' documentary Maid in America; it featured women who work as domestics. By her own account, she has portrayed a maid over 150 times in her career.  Recipient of the National Hispanic Media Coalition Lifetime Achievement Award. ~ Rovi